Recently, Oxford University’s former admissions officer, Richard Michaelis, visited our campus to deliver an engaging and thought-provoking lecture for both teachers and students on the university admissions process and the qualities that top universities value most in applicants.
Richard w.J.Michaeli
牛津大学硕士、博士，历史学教授
在牛津大学任教15年并曾担任招生官
During his talk, Mr. Michaelis shared research showing that some students from China experience a noticeable drop in academic performance during their first year at British universities. He explained that this can be due to limited familiarity with local culture and classroom expectations, as well as the challenge of adapting to the intensive reading, discussion, and writing required in Western higher education. In some cases, students may also feel a lack of direction if their motivation for studying abroad was driven more by family expectations than personal goals.
What Do Top Universities Really Look For?
Mr. Michaelis emphasized that university admissions have entered an era where strong examination results are no longer a competitive advantage, but simply a basic requirement. Academic ability remains essential, but admissions officers ultimately ask one key question: Why should this particular student be admitted?
What truly distinguishes successful applicants is their curiosity, independence, and enthusiasm for learning. Students who actively explore their interests, ask questions, and engage with the world around them are far more likely to stand out. Based on his experience, Mr. Michaelis noted that some students may feel hesitant during interviews or reluctant to challenge ideas in discussion. He encouraged students to develop confidence early by participating in academic enrichment activities such as summer schools, competitions, and collaborative projects.
This philosophy strongly aligns with the long-term educational vision of SUIS Pudong, which encourages students to explore diverse opportunities both inside and outside the classroom, discover their passions, and build the skills needed for success in global universities.
Five Years of Continuous University Guidance
To provide structured and consistent support, the A-Level High School Division at SUIS Pudong offers a comprehensive five-year university guidance programme for students from Grade 8 to Grade 12, led by four full-time university counsellors.
Building individual university profiles through surveys, personality and career interest assessments, and one-to-one interviews to support a smooth transition into high school.
Introducing global university research skills, guiding subject selection, and helping students plan meaningful summer experiences such as competitions, internships, or summer schools.
Providing detailed guidance on A-Level subject selection, ensuring students choose courses that best match their strengths, interests, and future goals.
Supporting personal statement writing, interview preparation, and teacher recommendation letters.
Finalising and submitting university applications with individualised counselling and follow-up support.
This long-term approach ensures that every student develops a clear direction, strong academic preparation, and a competitive application profile.
Direct Dialogue with Leading Universities
In addition to internal guidance, the school actively connects students with universities around the world.
Each year, students participate in the SUIS Spring College Fair, and overseas admissions officers are invited to the Pudong campus to hold information sessions and workshops, allowing students to learn directly from university representatives without leaving school.
The visiting overseas admissions officers at our school come from:
United Kingdom: King's College London, University of Glasgow
United States: San Diego State University, University of San Francisco
Australia: University of Sydney, University of Western Australia
Switzerland: Ecole hôtelière de Lausanne (EHL)
Singapore: University of the Arts Singapore
Japan: Waseda University, Tohoku University
Strong Outcomes Through Careful Guidance
As of 23 March 2026, 75% of the ninth graduating class at SUIS Pudong have received offers from universities ranked in the world’s Top 30.
From early self-exploration to final university placement, the school provides careful, professional, and personalised guidance at every stage. Our goal is to ensure that each student develops confidence, independence, and academic strength — and that every journey to higher education is both successful and meaningful.
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